The freight forwarding industry in North Carolina plays a pivotal role in connecting suppliers, manufacturers, and global markets. Companies in this sector streamline the transport of goods, engaging in activities like shipping, warehousing, customs clearance, and supply chain management. With increasing demand for real-time tracking and e-commerce solutions, these companies are embracing technology for greater efficiency. Fueled by international trade growth and a vibrant local economy, North Carolina's freight forwarders are poised for innovation, enhancing logistics capabilities and meeting evolving client expectations.

The companies listed here reflect a range of specializations in freight forwarding services, from air and ocean transportation to customs brokerage and supply chain management. Operating across various sizes, these firms are headquartered throughout North Carolina, with founding years spanning from 1984 to 2023. Many emphasize tailored customer solutions, catering to a blend of industries including healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing, showcasing North Carolina's thriving logistics scene.

Continue reading to discover the top freight forwarding companies in North Carolina.

Top 20 Freight Forwarding Services Companies in North Carolina

1. SOS Global Express

• Website: sosglobal.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New Bern, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, United Arab Emirates 6%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: February 2024
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: sos-global-express

SOS Global Express, founded in 1986 and headquartered in New Bern, North Carolina, is a logistics company that specializes in freight forwarding services. With a workforce of approximately 140 employees, the company has built a strong reputation for providing worldwide logistics solutions tailored to the needs of clients in industries such as television, music, and sports. Their expertise lies in the timely and safe transportation of equipment for critical events, ensuring that clients do not miss out on important opportunities. Over the years, SOS Global has handled logistics for significant events, including multiple Olympic Games, Super Bowls, and international music tours. Their operations span across the United States and extend to locations in the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates, showcasing their global reach. The company prides itself on its ability to manage complex logistics challenges, making it a trusted partner for many high-profile clients.

2. GES Logistics

• Website: geslogistics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Saudi Arabia 26%, United Arab Emirates 14%, Lebanon 10%, Other 50%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: globe-express-services

GES Logistics, founded in 1974 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a logistics company specializing in freight forwarding services. With a workforce of approximately 574 employees, the company provides a wide array of logistics solutions, including sea, air, and overland transportation. GES Logistics caters to businesses across various sectors, offering customized services that encompass shipping, warehousing, customs brokerage, and insurance. Their operational strategy emphasizes efficiency and reliability, enabling clients to navigate complex supply chain challenges. The company operates globally, with a notable employee distribution in regions such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and China, reflecting their international reach. GES Logistics is committed to maintaining high standards in management and operations, ensuring that their team is well-trained to handle diverse logistics needs, including temperature-sensitive and hazardous materials. Their extensive network of offices and agents allows them to provide effective solutions tailored to the specific requirements of different industries.

3. Point Global Logistics

• Website: pointgl.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Asheville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 67%, Brazil 14%, Mexico 5%, Other 14%
• Latest funding: October 2017
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: point-global-logistics

Point Global Logistics, based in Asheville, North Carolina, is a logistics company that specializes in transportation and supply chain management. Established in 2013, the firm has grown to employ around 64 individuals, showcasing its ability to scale operations effectively. The company offers a wide array of services, including air freight, ocean freight, ground transportation, customs solutions, and contract logistics. They cater primarily to businesses that require efficient and reliable logistics solutions. Point Global Logistics prides itself on providing customized services that meet the specific needs of its clients, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of goods. Their operational reach extends across various countries, with a notable presence in the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, and China. The company emphasizes a proactive approach to logistics, aiming to enhance customer satisfaction through tailored solutions and continuous communication.

4. IGL Logistics Inc

• Website: iglnow.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Mexico 6%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: igl-logistics-inc

IGL Logistics Inc., founded in 2018 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private logistics firm specializing in comprehensive transportation and warehousing solutions. With a workforce of approximately 31 employees, the company serves various sectors, including manufacturing and healthcare. IGL Logistics offers a wide array of services, such as air, ocean, and ground transportation, along with specialized logistics for tradeshows and disaster recovery. Their commitment to simplifying logistics processes and ensuring timely delivery of goods is evident in their operational approach. The company utilizes advanced technology to provide real-time visibility for shipments, enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency. IGL Logistics is dedicated to maintaining high standards in service delivery, which is crucial in the competitive logistics landscape.

5. Armstrong Transport Group

• Website: armstrongtransport.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Colombia 4%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: June 2019
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: armstrong-transport-group

Armstrong Transport Group, founded in 2006 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private equity-backed logistics company that specializes in freight brokerage and transportation services. With a workforce of approximately 1,150 employees, the company has established a robust network that facilitates various shipping solutions, including full truckload, expedited shipping, and cross-border logistics. Armstrong Transport serves a wide array of businesses, ensuring efficient and reliable transportation of goods across North America. Their commitment to customer service is evident in their operational strategies, which leverage a team of logistics professionals to handle the complexities of freight movement. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model since its inception.

6. MegaCorp Logistics

• Website: megacorplogistics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Wilmington, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: megacorp-logistics

MegaCorp Logistics, based in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a private logistics company that has been operational since 2009. With a workforce of approximately 681 employees, the company specializes in providing transportation and supply chain solutions tailored to the needs of businesses across various sectors. Their service offerings include full truckload, less than truckload, intermodal, and expedited shipping, ensuring that they can meet a wide array of shipping requirements. MegaCorp emphasizes real-time tracking and 24/7 customer service, which enhances their reliability and responsiveness in the logistics market. The company has built a reputation for being a trusted partner in freight transportation, focusing on efficiency and customer satisfaction. Their operational model is supported by a national network of carriers, allowing them to deliver goods safely and on time throughout the United States and Canada.

7. O.T.S. Astracon LLC

• Website: otsusa.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ots-astracon-llc

O.T.S. Astracon LLC, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been a player in the logistics industry since its founding in 1997. The company specializes in transportation and supply chain management, offering a range of services that include air freight, ocean freight, warehousing, and distribution. With a workforce of approximately 31 employees, O.T.S. Astracon prides itself on delivering personalized customer service, ensuring that clients receive tailored solutions to their logistics needs. The company operates with a strong focus on compliance with industry regulations, including membership in the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) and adherence to U.S. Homeland Security standards. Their extensive capabilities in warehousing, with over 1,000,000 square feet available on each coast, further enhance their service offerings. O.T.S. Astracon's commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence positions them as a reliable partner in the logistics sector.

8. SEA Corporation

• Website: seacorpnc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lincolnton, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: s.e.a.-corp.

SEA Corporation, operating under the name SEACORP, is a logistics company based in Lincolnton, North Carolina. Established in 1998, SEACORP specializes in a variety of transportation services, including international and domestic air freight, US flag ocean freight, container drayage, and door-to-door logistics. The company serves a wide array of clients, providing tailored solutions for both exporting and importing goods. With a strong emphasis on customer service, SEACORP has built a reputation for ensuring that shipments are handled safely and delivered on time. They leverage a global network of agents to facilitate efficient shipping across six continents. SEACORP has also been recognized for its contributions to the export sector, having received the President’s “E” Award for Export Service in 2014, which highlights their commitment to supporting U.S. exporters. Their services include FCL/LCL, intermodal transport, and marine insurance, making them a comprehensive logistics partner for businesses.

9. Odyssey Logistics

• Website: odysseylogistics.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Poland 10%, Belgium 4%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: August 2017
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: odyssey-logistics-%26-technology

Odyssey Logistics, founded in 2003 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a logistics company that specializes in multimodal transportation and supply chain solutions. With a workforce of approximately 736 employees, the company operates primarily in the United States, with additional presence in Poland and Belgium. Odyssey offers a range of services including intermodal transport, warehousing, truck brokerage, and third-party logistics (3PL). They serve various industries, notably chemicals, metals, and food and beverage, emphasizing safety and compliance in their operations. The company leverages technology to enhance supply chain efficiency and reliability, and their Cloverleaf program focuses on sustainable logistics practices. Odyssey's extensive freight network, valued at $3 billion, allows them to provide strategic transportation solutions globally, ensuring that they remain a relevant player in the logistics and freight forwarding industry.

10. Clt Air Freight

• Website: cltair.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: clt-air-freight

CLT Air Freight, founded in 1996, is a private logistics company based in Durham, North Carolina. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, the company has established itself as a reliable provider of freight transportation and warehousing services. They offer local pick-up and delivery, regional line-haul services, and a range of warehousing solutions, including long and short-term storage, ocean container handling, and custom crating. Their clientele includes freight forwarders, shippers, and US Customs Brokers, highlighting their integral role in the logistics chain. CLT Air Freight operates two facilities in North Carolina and maintains a fleet equipped for various transportation needs. Their commitment to safety and compliance is evident through their certifications, including TSA and Hazmat, ensuring they meet industry standards. Additionally, they have developed a strong network of partnerships to facilitate efficient logistics operations across the Southeast.

11. TMX Shipping Co., Inc.

• Website: tmxship.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Morehead City, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tmx-shipping-coinc

TMX Shipping Co., Inc. is a private logistics company based in Morehead City, North Carolina, with a focus on freight forwarding and transportation management services. Established in 1984, the company has over 35 years of experience in the logistics sector, particularly in the export of wood products. TMX Shipping prides itself on its strong customer service ethos, emphasizing attention to detail and customized solutions for its clients. Each customer is assigned a dedicated account manager, ensuring that their shipping needs are met with precision and care. The company offers a full suite of services, including booking cargo with steamship lines, arranging truck and rail transport, fumigation, USDA inspections, and export documentation. TMX Shipping operates with a commitment to professionalism and expertise, aiming to provide competitive pricing and unmatched service to its clients in the forest products industry.

12. Delta Express Inc

• Website: deltaexpressinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kings Mountain, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Mexico 46%, United States (USA) 32%, Ukraine 11%, Other 12%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: deltaexpressinc

Delta Express Inc. is a logistics company based in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, founded in 2010. The company specializes in freight shipping services, providing a range of solutions including Full Truckload (FTL), Less Than Truckload (LTL), Last Mile Delivery, and cross-border shipping to Canada and Mexico. With a workforce of approximately 313 employees, Delta Express caters to both businesses and individual customers, ensuring reliable transportation solutions for various cargo types. Their services are designed to meet the needs of clients requiring regular, bulky, perishable, or time-sensitive deliveries. The company has a significant employee distribution, with a notable presence in Mexico, indicating their operational reach beyond the U.S. market. Delta Express Inc. positions itself as a logistics partner, emphasizing customer service and tailored solutions for freight transportation.

13. RelayLogistics

• Website: relay-logistics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Canada 58%, India 26%, Zambia 16%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: relaylogistics

RelayLogistics, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private logistics company that specializes in freight forwarding services. Established in 2017, the company has quickly positioned itself as a provider of comprehensive logistics solutions, including air and ocean freight, customs compliance, and warehousing. With operations extending across the USA, Canada, and India, RelayLogistics leverages a global network to facilitate the efficient movement of goods across borders. The company prides itself on understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions, which is evident in their range of services that also includes inland transportation and cargo insurance. Their commitment to customer service is reflected in positive testimonials from clients who appreciate their proactive communication and expertise in customs-related matters. RelayLogistics operates with a small team, emphasizing a personalized approach to logistics, which can be appealing to businesses looking for dedicated support in their supply chain operations.

14. CLN Worldwide

• Website: clnusa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cln-worldwide

CLN Worldwide, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private logistics company founded in 2002. With a workforce of approximately 31 employees, the company focuses on supply chain management, providing a range of services that include international air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, compliance solutions, and warehousing. CLN Worldwide caters primarily to businesses in sectors such as aerospace, bio-pharma, and heavy equipment, emphasizing their expertise in managing complex logistics needs. Their operations extend across the United States, with additional offices in cities like Phoenix, Houston, New York, and Fresno. The company prides itself on its ability to streamline logistics processes, ensuring efficient supply chain operations for its clients.

15. River Place Logistics, INC.

• Website: riverplacelogistics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: river-place-logistics-inc.

River Place Logistics, INC. is a private logistics company based in Raleigh, North Carolina, with additional offices in Archdale, NC, and St. Augustine, FL. Established in 2008, the company has built a solid reputation for providing transportation solutions tailored to the needs of shippers and carriers. With a team boasting over 100 years of combined experience, River Place Logistics focuses on delivering efficient and dependable services. They specialize in freight movement, warehousing, and the transportation of perishable goods, catering primarily to businesses that require timely and reliable logistics services. The company prides itself on its commitment to customer satisfaction, transparency, and effective communication, which are essential in the logistics industry. River Place Logistics is also a member of the Transportation Intermediaries Association, further solidifying its position in the logistics sector.

16. Riverstone Logistics

• Website: rlx.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: riverstonelogistics

Riverstone Logistics, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a logistics company that specializes in providing comprehensive transportation and warehousing solutions. Founded in 2017, the company has quickly made a name for itself by offering services such as truckload, less-than-truckload, drayage, expedited delivery, and final mile services. With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, Riverstone aims to enhance the shipping experience for its clients across various sectors. The company operates 35 locations across the United States and boasts a network of over 400 independent motor carrier partners, facilitating more than 20,000 successful deliveries daily. Riverstone's commitment to efficient logistics management is evident in their impressive 97.3% on-time delivery rate and focus on damage-free shipments. Their approach combines personal service with advanced logistics technology, ensuring that every shipment is handled with care and precision. Riverstone Logistics is not just about moving goods; they strive to create better experiences for their clients and contribute positively to their communities.

17. International Express Trucking, Inc.

• Website: intexpr.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lowell, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 81%, India 19%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: international-express-trucking

International Express Trucking, Inc. is a logistics provider based in Lowell, North Carolina, established in 2001. The company specializes in a variety of transportation services, including trucking, air freight, ocean freight, and warehousing solutions. They primarily serve businesses in the greater Charlotte, NC and Atlanta, GA regions, emphasizing efficient and reliable delivery of goods. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, International Express Trucking has built a reputation for customer service excellence, as evidenced by positive feedback from clients. The company operates a certified cargo screening facility and is compliant with various regulatory standards, including CTPAT and FDA approvals. Their operational capabilities include local cartage, airport transfers, and comprehensive warehousing services, making them a significant player in the logistics and freight forwarding industry.

18. Hospitality Logistics International

• Website: hospitalitylogistics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Belgium 5%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hospitality-logistics-international

Hospitality Logistics International (HLI), founded in 2006 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private logistics firm that specializes in supply chain management for the hospitality, military, and healthcare industries. With a workforce of approximately 44 employees, HLI has carved out a niche in providing tailored logistics solutions for high-value goods, particularly in the realm of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E). Their service portfolio includes project management, freight transportation, installation, customs clearance, and cargo insurance. HLI has built a reputation for delivering white glove service, ensuring that their clients, which include prominent hotel brands and government entities, receive timely and efficient logistics support. The company operates a global network, with strategic partnerships and agents across various regions, allowing them to manage complex international shipments effectively. HLI's commitment to excellence is reflected in their proactive approach to project management, which emphasizes communication and problem-solving to prevent delays and optimize costs.

19. Kleinhenz Holdings, Inc.

• Website: kleinhenzholdings.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Statesville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: kleinhenzholdings

Kleinhenz Holdings, Inc., also known as Holland Logistics, Inc., is a logistics company based in Statesville, North Carolina. Founded in 2023, the company specializes in transportation and supply chain management services. They provide a variety of solutions, including Full Truckload (FTL), Less-Than-Truckload (LTL), and warehousing services. Holland Logistics aims to support businesses with efficient logistics operations, integrating multiple service providers to streamline supply chain processes. Their offerings extend to global import and export services, showcasing their capability in freight forwarding. The company operates as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, emphasizing ethical customer service and a commitment to integrity in their operations. With a focus on personal attention and consistent communication, Holland Logistics seeks to build partnerships that allow clients to concentrate on their core business activities.

20. Expedited Freight

• Website: expeditedfreight.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $10.0M, August 2012
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: expedited-freight_2

Expedited Freight, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a logistics company founded in 1985. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, the company specializes in expedited freight services, providing solutions that include air and ground shipping, urgent trucking, and time-critical air charters. They cater to businesses that require swift and dependable delivery of goods, ensuring timely logistics support across various industries. Expedited Freight has established itself as a reliable partner for companies needing expedited shipping solutions, leveraging their expertise to navigate the complexities of logistics. Their operational model emphasizes customer service, offering clients a single point of contact throughout the shipping process. This approach, combined with their extensive network of freight carriers, allows them to deliver tailored solutions that meet the urgent needs of their clients.

Freight Forwarding Services Insights: Key Companies in North Carolina

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